Provides relative to the coastal management program, designees of the secretary, and prohibition of certain contracts. (8/1/20)
Impact
The proposed measures in SB 275 will have significant implications for how legal services are contracted within the coastal management framework. By prohibiting certain types of contracts, the bill seeks to reinforce ethical standards among public officials involved in coastal management. This could lead to a clearer delineation of responsibilities and a reduction in financial incentives that could compromise decision-making related to coastal resources.
Summary
Senate Bill 275 is a legislative proposal that revises the coastal management program administered by the Department of Natural Resources. The bill specifies that neither the secretary of the department nor their designees can enter into employment contracts with private entities for legal services, particularly those contracts that involve contingent fees or shift payment of attorney fees to other parties. This change aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest and ensure that legal services provided to the coastal management program are not influenced by outside financial arrangements.
Sentiment
Discussions surrounding SB 275 appear to center on ethical governance and accountability within the state's coastal management program. Proponents of the bill advocate for its necessity in ensuring public trust and transparency, while critics may question the practicality and potential bureaucratic limits it places on the secretary's ability to obtain necessary legal support. Overall, there is an emphasis on balancing ethical provisions with operational efficiency.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding SB 275 include the potential chilling effect on collaborative contract partnerships that might benefit the coastal management program. Some stakeholders worry that strict prohibitions on legal service contracts could hinder the department’s ability to respond effectively to legal challenges or complex coastal management issues. This tension highlights an ongoing debate about the need for professional legal expertise versus the imperatives of maintaining strict ethical standards in public service.
Requires certain institutions of higher education and degree-granting proprietary institutions to submit certain documentation on online program managers to Secretary of Higher Education.
Requires certain institutions of higher education and degree-granting proprietary institutions to submit certain documentation on online program managers to Secretary of Higher Education.
Provides that the provisions of the Code of Governmental Ethics prohibiting or restricting contracts involving the secretary, deputy secretary, undersecretary, and assistant secretary, or equivalent position of each state department shall also apply to the spouses and immediate family members of such officials. (gov sig)
Establishes a program to authorize the granting of ad valorem tax exemption contracts by the Board of Commerce and Industry for certain businesses (EN DECREASE LF RV See Note)
Authorizes contracts for motion picture investor tax credit for five years, renewable for five more, for scripted television series if they agree to construct or lease production facilities in Louisiana and reach an agreement with LED on guaranteed expenditures and jobs for residents. (gov sig)